Spirits Sheltered: The Characters Within the Flora & Fauna

A fundraising exhibition for the Anna Templeton Centre for Craft Art and Design and the Friends of the Salmonier Nature Park 

Without Fences, silk with natural dye, metal thread and birch bark. 8" x 18"
Kailey Bryan Photo

My latest embroidery, created for an exhibition of instructors from the Anna Templeton Centre. 

I struggled with the concept of creating portraits of the animals in the Park. 

I understand and agree with the Parks mandate but find it difficult to observe majestic creatures such as lynx and horned owls constrained by fences, even if it in their best interest. I started to think about other creatures that are offered protection inside the sanctuary; chickadees, jays and a plethora of other wildlife and plants are protected without barriers. 

I an intrigued by the tiny or mundane; flora or fauna often over looked in favour of the larger, often romanticized species. I choose to honour the 'Spirits' not usually considered; a portrait of a few creatures who enjoy the shelter of the Park without the boundary of fences.